Genetics Scientist Turned Skincare Entrepreneur: How Sheetal Rawal Transformed Skincare Routines with Apsara Skin Care’s Ayurvedic Products
While most teenagers spend their formative years engaging in sports, hobbies, and socializing, Sheetal Rawal’s adolescence was distinctively different. At 13, rather than spending her time in conventional adolescent pastimes, Rawal was drawn to the science of creating skincare products. Fuelled by a passion for natural ingredients and a keen interest in healthy skin, she dedicated her time to formulating skincare potions from 100% natural ingredients.
Little did Rawal know that her early curiosity laid the groundwork for a deep-seated interest in natural skincare solutions, marking the beginning of her journey from being a genetics scientist to now the founder and CEO of the California-based Ayurvedic skincare brand Apsara Skincare.
A Game-Changer in the Making
Rawal’s journey from being a genetics scientist to a skincare expert testifies to what passion, innovation, and the pursuit of natural wellness can achieve. From a young age, she was captivated by the potential of natural ingredients to enhance skin health. Her curiosity and experimental spirit were evident in her pre-teen years as she began mixing spices, herbs, and other natural substances to create skincare potions for personal use.
As a young woman facing acne, Rawal was motivated to find effective, natural solutions. Her scientific background in genetics gave her a unique perspective and advantage on the efficacy of natural ingredients. Leveraging her knowledge and laboratory skills, she explored Ayurvedic formulations, drawing inspiration from her Indian heritage.
After years in the genetics field, her kitchen transformed into a makeshift laboratory, brimming with essential oils, herbal extracts, and other natural components. It was here that she developed a serum and face mask that not only addressed her acne but also revitalized her skin. Her personal positive experience was the beginning of today’s leading all-natural Ayurvedic-based skincare brand, Apsara Skin Care Inc.
“I felt unfulfilled with my work in the genetics lab. It’s a bit monotonous, a matter of following protocols. But the opportunities presented something else altogether, and I am glad I followed my passion,” Rawal shares.
Why Ayurveda?
Ayurveda, a 5000-year-old system of health and well-being that originated in India, is more than just a medical practice. It is a comprehensive guide to living a balanced and healthy life. This ancient tradition emphasizes the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit and seeks to maintain harmony among these elements through natural means.
Rawal notes that when applied to skincare, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach beyond superficial treatments. It focuses on nurturing the skin to support overall health and well-being. It utilizes natural ingredients revered for centuries for their healing and therapeutic properties to address the root causes of skin issues rather than just their symptoms.
“Ayurveda-based skincare is made from ingredients often found in typical household kitchens, including herbs, spices, and oils known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and rejuvenating effects,” Rawal explains.
For the skin care expert, the availability of Ayurvedic-based ingredients proves that people need no harsh chemicals to achieve their skin or hair goals. These time-tested ingredients transform how people build and follow their personal care routines.
From Kitchen to Mainstream
Rawal emphasizes that the company’s mission is well summed up in its tagline: “Go natural. It is good karma!” This has proved to be the case as Apsara Skincare now holds over 370,000 Facebook fans and 68,000 Instagram followers interested in switching to Ayurvedic skin care products for their skincare routines.
The brand’s Ayurvedic Glowing Skin set, which contains its Essence of Lavender Face Lotion, Roop-Saffron Bright Skin Serum, and Vitamin C Skin Glow Serum, has become a crowd favorite and one of its best-selling products. Additionally, the brand has received hundreds of product reviews from satisfied users who have experienced the benefits of Apsara’s other skincare solutions, such as its ROOP Night Mega Glow Saffron Serum, Rosemary and Amla Hair Care Routine, Cucumber Under Eye Rescue Serum, and many others.
For Rawal, this highlights the demand for time-honored solutions to modern skincare routines and for all-natural and more effective alternatives.
Rawal as an Entrepreneur
Aside from her expertise in the skincare domain, Rawal admits how the journey also challenged her entrepreneurial skills. Building the company from the ground up was no small feat. It required a multifaceted approach beyond just formulating products. She took on the challenge of overseeing every aspect of the business, from the initial research and testing phases to production and marketing.
When asked why she pursued this path, Rawal answered, “Nature holds the key to healthy, radiant skin. It’s not easy, but my passion for Ayurveda and natural wellness drove me to explore how these ancient practices could be applied to modern skincare needs. In a nutshell Apsara is a symbol of my love for Ayurveda, beauty and following my passion. It could be called my labor of love. But it is not labor to me. Rather a continuous source of fulfillment. I feel honored and a sense of deep gratitude for playing an important role in introducing Ayurvedic beauty to the West.”
Rawal’s hands-on involvement in the business showcases her dedication to her brand and adeptness at launching and growing a business in the competitive skincare industry. Her comprehensive approach ensured that every product Apsara released adhered to the highest standards of quality and effectiveness, reflecting her commitment to excellence.